Today, 7^th April, Hestia were delighted to welcome Mayor of London candidate, Sadiq Khan to our Safe Space in Superdrug, Upton Park.

The scheme, which is delivered by our national campaign UK SAYS NO MORE, was launched in pharmacies across the country in May 2020 following a rise in domestic abuse during COVID-19 lockdown restrictions. It enables victims of domestic abuse to seek support in pharmacy consultation rooms.

Mr Khan was joined by CEO of Hestia Patrick Ryan, Hestia’s Director of Communications and Fundraising Jo Tilley-Riley, Mayor of Newham Rokhsana Fiaz and Superdrug key workers.

Superdrug pharmacist Shakila Islam spoke about his personal experience of helping a victim of domestic abuse to access the Safe Space, highlighting the vital need for the service throughout the pandemic.

Hestia Chief Executive, Patrick Ryan asserted:

“Right now, there are victims who have been trapped at home with their abusers for over a year, unable to access support. That is why in partnership with over 5,300 pharmacies, including Superdrug, we launched Safe Spaces to ensure victims of domestic abuse can access vital support. Providing additional refuge spaces and helping more people access Safe Spaces has never been more important.”

Sadiq Khan acknowledged the importance of financial aid for domestic abuse services, especially during this time.

“Since the pandemic began I've invested £1.5m to provide safe spaces for domestic abuse victims, part of my £60m+ to tackle violence against women & girls.”

There are now more than 5,000 Safe Spaces across the UK, including in all 200 Superdrug pharmacies. Anyone experiencing domestic abuse can ask at the healthcare counter to use the Safe Space; they will then be shown to the pharmacy consultation room and presented with information on national helplines and the Bright Sky app, which they can use to find local support services.

Find your nearest Safe Space here.